Does Snoring Cause Erectile Dysfunction?
Erectile dysfunction is a condition that is far more common than many people realize. The condition can cause a lot of distress and embarrassment for sufferers.
The good news is there is help available for those that suffer from erectile dysfunction. There are also a number of possible causes that must be considered so the right treatment can be arranged.
Another common condition that may impact men is heavy snoring. Studies have shown there is a link between heavy snoring and erectile dysfunction. Research has indicated men who snore heavily due to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can develop erectile dysfunction or experience loss of libido and reduced sexual satisfaction.
Why does snoring cause erectile dysfunction?
A few years ago, a study was carried out at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa, Israel. The results of the study showed that men who suffered from obstructive sleep apnea released reduced testosterone levels during the night. This resulted in reduced libido and the inability to achieve or maintain an erection in some subjects.
Another consideration is the lack of quality sleep that heavy snoring and OSA can cause. If a man is constantly tired, this can affect many bodily functions and can create health problems. Erectile dysfunction may, therefore, also result from fatigue and lack of energy.
Studies have also shown lower sexual satisfaction levels among men who suffer from OSA.
Dopamine
Dopamine is an organic chemical, a neurotransmitter, that in addition to controlling the brain’s reward and pleasure centers in general, increases libido and the strength of an erection. Studies have shown that poor sleep numbs the brain’s dopamine receptors. This can cause lack of interest in sex and erectile dysfunction.
Stage 3 Sleep
Snoring and OSA disrupts Stage 3 sleep. This is the period during the sleep cycle sometimes called “deep” sleep. Your blood pressure and body temperature drop and breathing slows. Muscles and eye movements become limited.
During this stage, the brain secretes and rebuilds sex hormones like Testosterone, Dopamine, and Gonadotropin. Snoring disrupts this daily repair mechanism, resulting in lower libidos and erectile dysfunction.
The Evidence
Numerous studies have shown the positive effects of treating sleep apnea in improving a man’s sex life. One study determined that over 50% of men with OSA, once they began using a CPAP machine, reduced or eliminated incidents of erectile dysfunction.
What can be done?
There are a number of solutions that can help to combat OSA. Some of these are simple lifestyle changes such as losing weight, changing your diet and avoiding alcohol in the evening. Others are devices or treatments that can help to strengthen the throat muscles and open airways, so you can breathe more easily at night.
Self-help treatments to consider
There are various self-help methods that you can use to reduce the severity of snoring. Some of the key ones include:
- Losing excess weight through healthy eating
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Increase Water intake, decrease dehydration
- Stop smoking
- Exercise more regularly
- Develop good sleep hygiene and a bedtime routine
- Try to sleep on your side to reduce the risk of obstruction
- Essential oils to help clear the nasal passages
All of these steps can help to reduce snoring resulting from OSA, which can have a positive impact on erectile dysfunction.
Products you can use
You will also find a number of products you can use to help you get a better night’s sleep and increase your libido. Some of the products on the market include:
- Nasal dilators or cones
- Anti-snoring pillows
- Nasal pumps and sprays
- EPAP (expiratory positive airway pressure) devices
- CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) devices
- Snoring mouthpieces (View our top Pick: SnoreRx Review)
The product that is best suited to your needs will be affected by a number of factors. Some products are more intrusive than others. For example, CPAP devices require the use of a machine while EPAP ones simply fit over the nostrils. The severity and cause of your snoring will also determine the best product for you.
Seeking medical assistance for erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a number of different factors in addition to OSA. This includes issues such as:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol
- Parkinson’s Disease
With this in mind, it is advisable to seek advice from your doctor or a medical professional about your condition.
Conclusion
If you are a heavy snorer and you suffer from erectile dysfunction, there is a better than 50% chance there could be a link. Of course, there is no guarantee that snoring is the cause of the problem. This is why it is important to seek medical advice, as it could be related to another issue.
If you believe it is the result of OSA and heavy snoring, you can benefit from access to a range of products that can help. Read our user reviews that have been successful in reducing their snoring.
